Your Guide to Buying a Home in Orlando, FL

Buying a Home in Orlando, Florida

(Orlando is much like a giant amusement park, though the city offers many other amenities as well)

Orlando is located in Orange County

Orlando is the place where wishes come true...or at least that is what the Disney World commercials say. As host to several of the world's most incredible theme parks and attractions, Orlando has no problem beckoning millions of people each year to partake of the unique experiences it offers. The main draw is, without doubt, Walt Disney World, made famous by commercials showing the world's best athletes proclaiming, "I'm going to Disney World!" However, one must not forget the incredible Universal Studios Theme Park and Sea World. If this were not enough, Orlando boasts of museums, historical sites, local parks and lakes, and a mild tropical climate. The only thing Orlando does not have is oceanfront, but a quick trip down the Bee Line Expressway or Highway 50 will take you to Titusville and other oceanside cities.

It is difficult to imagine Orlando without its theme parks and abundance of recreational opportunities. However, the city officially developed from a military fort that was built in the area during the Seminole Wars. Over the years a settlement began to spring up around the fort, and in 1875 the town of Orlando was incorporated. Its population at the time was just 85! No one could have imagined how important Orlando would be as both a tourist area and important economic center. In fact, economic planners are using the tourism industry to attract a more diversified industry base to the area. The city has a very clear vision that involves several initiatives, all of which will be supported by the city's current infrastructure. Orlando's downtown provides close proximity to the region's top business leadership, government leadership, consulates, international trade organizations and professional associations. In addition, the largest concentration of office space in Orlando is 9.4 million square feet. Specific industries currently targeted for growth include health care, international business, film and television, high technology, and sports.

Orlando has a strong artistic and cultural side to go along with its numerous amusement areas. The entire family will enjoy the Orlando Science Center and John Young Planetarium, complete with interactive displays designed to educate and fascinate. Equally intriguing is the Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum, showcasing bizarre and sometimes ordinary exhibits intended to amaze and amuse. For those who are not "science geeks", the Orlando Museum of Art offers American art from the 19th and 20th century, and includes an interactive display for children.

If Orlando's attractions are not enough for you (that may not even be possible), nearby Titusville and Cape Canaveral (30 minutes to the east) offers the Kennedy Space Center and museums that outline the history of this nation's Space Program. Year-round launches at Cape Canaveral provide a unique and exhilarating experience.

Orlando is not just a tourist town. A strong economy, great school systems, fine dining, wonderful shopping, and friendly residents all contribute to Orlando's appeal as a place to call home. The city is located in central Florida, about 20 miles southeast of the Ocala National Forest. Come experience the fun and comfort of this great city. You will come as a tourist, but stay as a life-long resident.

There are affordable homes ranging from about $140,000 for townhomes, condos, and single family homes. Fine custom homes priced from $350,000, to elegant mansions, both on and off the lakefront, are also available for your choosing. There is also new construction available.